Experience the timeless beauty of classical ballet music with "The Nutcracker Suite," a distinguished collection released by Forever Gold (2) in 1999. This CD offers a rich selection of iconic compositions from three of the most celebrated ballets: Swan Lake, The Sleeping Beauty, and The Nutcracker. Perfect for enthusiasts of romantic-era classical music, this album showcases masterful performances of these beloved works, all recorded in Canada.

The collection begins with selections from Tchaikovsky’s "Swan Lake" (1876), Ballet In Four Acts Op. 20. It features the enchanting "Waltz From Act I" (6:49), the expressive "Scene From Act II" (2:32), and the delicate "Dance Of The Little Swans from Act II" (1:32). Additional pieces include the "Scene: Pas d'action (Andante from Act II)" (6:10) and the lively "Mazurka from Act III" (3:20), capturing the ballet’s lyrical and dramatic essence.

Next, the album presents excerpts from Tchaikovsky’s "The Sleeping Beauty" (1890), Ballet In Prologue And Three Acts Op. 66. Highlights include the "Introduction" (3:30), the energetic "Pas d'action" (6:07), and the characterful "Pas de caractieres: Puss In Boots" (3:06). The "Waltz From Act II" (4:40) and the majestic "Apotheose" (3:50) further exemplify the ballet’s grandeur and elegance.

The final segment features selections from Tchaikovsky’s "The Nutcracker" (1892), Ballet In Two Acts Op. 71. This includes the "Miniature Overture" (3:02), the instantly recognizable "Dance Of The Sugar Plum Fairy" (1:41), and the lively "Trepak: Russian Dance" (1:00). Additional tracks are the "Arabian Dance" (2:48), the "Chinese Dance" (1:08), the whimsical "Dance Of The Mirlitons (reed flutes)" (1:56), and the grand "Waltz Of The Flowers" (7:08), which concludes the suite with a flourish.

Published and copyrighted in 1999 by the St. Clair Entertainment Group Inc., this CD was made in Canada. The album’s barcode is 7 77966 63352 7, with matrix/runout #991031H HOL35222 41 MFG BY CINRAM. Mastering SID Code is L381, and Mould SID Code is IFPI 6000, ensuring high-quality production standards. This collection is an excellent choice for classical music lovers seeking to enjoy these masterpieces in a beautifully curated format.

• Artist: Tchaikovsky, P.I.
• Format: CD
• Binding: Audio CD
• Brand: St. Clair Entertainment
• Manufacturer: St. Clair Entertainment